What if I do NOT have a bachelor's degree?

Currently, ADEC does not offer an undergraduate certification program.

If you are applying for the CT, a bachelor's degree is required.

If you are applying for the FT, an advanced degree of Masters or Doctorate is required.

What types of courses count towards the 60 contact hours?

Any course that is about thanatology (death, dying, bereavement, suicide, hospice, loss and grief) will count towards the 60 contact hours. Applicants must show documentation and prove that coursework covered materials related to thanatology.

Do I have to purchase the three references books that are recommended?

No, they are only recommended texts. It's your option to purchase the three text books.

Where is the exam given?

The exam is given online. You can take the exam from your home, your office or anywhere that you have Internet access on the day of the exam.

How long is the exam?

The certification exam is three hours long. No time is allotted for breaks. If you must take a short break during the exam, no extra time will be given for completion of the exam.

What types of questions are asked on the exam, and how many are there?

The exam is made up of 150 multiple choice questions. Categories of questions by number and percentage of exam are as follows:

Is there a familiarization exam?

Yes, there is a familiarization exam which serves to help familiarize you with the online testing system. This is not a study tool.After you meet all of the requirements and are approved to take the certification exam, you will receive a study guide which contains a sample test. In October, you will be sent instructions on how to access to the familiarization exam.

What if I do not pass the exam?

You can retake the exam at half the price the following year.

If I do not pass the exam, will I receive a refund?

No. However, you may retake the exam at half-price the next time it is offered.

How frequently is the exam offered?

The certification exam is offered once a year, in November. The deadline to apply for a given year's exam is in September of that year.

How long will it take to receive the results of my exam?

Please allow 12 weeks to receive the results of your examination.

When submitting my application, can I send any of the requirements separately?

No. You must submit all of the required documentation (the application, documentation, transcript, recommendation letters, payment and letter confirming experience) together at one time.

How often will I need to recertify?

Upon earning the CT or FT credential, certification remains valid for the following three complete calendar years. Recertification is required every three years.